WYD Pilgrims Prepare

Bathurst PIlgrims will will fly out for World Youth Day on 14th July 2016. On the weekend of the 18th - 19th June, they gathered in Mudgee to learn more about the upcoming pilgrimage to Rome, Warsaw, Lodz and Krakow.

While the weather was far from warm, the welcome from the Parish and the good cheer of the pilgrims made up for any issues with the temperature. All pilgrims (except Rachel Lonard and Fr Greg Bellamy) were present for the weekend and spent time learning about Poland, WYD practicalities and, of course, getting to know each other.

One of the highlights was the personal testimony of Stasia and Maggie, two parishioners from Rylstone who migrated to Australia from Poland after the Second World War. Their experiences of life helped the group to understand the recent history of Poland and the importance of reverencing the part played by Polish Catholics and St John Paul, in freeing Poland from occupation.

On the Saturday night, a Polish feast was prepared by the pilgrim group, which was a fantastic way of entering into the spirit of the pilgrimage.

The group was also lucky enough to be able to spend time with Bishop McKenna, who was in Mudgee for confirmations. Thanks must go to Fr Tony Hennessey, Bishop McKenna, Patti and Daniel from the St Mary's Parish, who did so much to make the group feel welcome and part of the parish celebration.